Sacral Dysmorphism and Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebrae (LSTV) Review

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Orthopedics
• Radiology

Background:

• Anatomic variations in the lumbosacral spine are well-documented and clinically significant.
• These variations play a role in spine deformity, low back pain (LBP), and pelvic trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical and surgical implications of abnormal lumbosacral anatomy.
• Focus on sacroiliac joint (SIJ) disease, spine deformity, and pelvic trauma.

Main Methods:

• Literature review using PubMed.
• Keywords: "lumbosacral transitional vertebrae," "LSTV," "transitional lumbosacral vertebrae," "TLSV," and "sacral dysmorphism."

Main Results:

• Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) prevalence ranges from 3.9% to 35.6%.
• Sacral dysmorphism is reported in over 50% of trauma cases.
• LSTV is linked to LBP through multifactorial causes including biomechanics and degeneration.

Conclusions:

• Abnormal lumbosacral anatomy (LSTV, sacral dysmorphism) is prevalent and impacts LBP evaluation and surgical planning.
• Crucial for SIJ fusion, spine deformity correction, and pelvic trauma surgery.
• Further research needed to guide treatment strategies.